There are speculations that the annual Haj pilgrim quota allocated to India may be reduced by 34,000. The Saudi government had declared an annual quota of 125,000 on government account for India, while the quota on private operators account has not yet been declared.

Due to increase in Haj pilgrims every year the Saudi government is finding difficult to cope with the problem.

'We have been informed by the Saudi government that they intend to bring about reduction of 50% internal pilgrims from Saudi Arabia for the Haj and 20% from all pilgrims overseas,” said the Spokesperson in the Indian External Affairs Ministry, Syed Akbaruddin.

As there is an increase in the number of Muslims in the country desirous of going on Haj pilgrim, India had asked the Saudi government to effect an increase in the quota.

“We have regular meetings with Saudi Arabia on arrangements for Haj pilgrims.We have asked for an increase in the quota for Haj pilgrims from India. Given the fact that the processes for Haj pilgrimage have already been initiated, we have requested the Saudi authorities both in Delhi and in Riyadh to reconsider their decision taking into account the advanced stage of preparations. We are awaiting a response from them', said Akbaruddin.

The apex court in the country has directed the government to cut the subsidy on Haj pilgrims and the pilgrimage is slated to become costlier with rising trend in prices. The airlines are also slated to increase flight charges. At present Saudi Riyal is equal to Rs 15.568